Doctor Who is set to make a comeback on Christmas Day, the Daily Star reports today.

Christopher Eccleston's debut in the role looks to take a prime position in the BBC One schedule, with an episode seeing the Doctor battle face one of his most feared enemies, the Autons.

"The project is really taking off and is better than anyone expected," a source told the newspaper. "Senior executives believe the new show will be a major event. I don't think anyone realised quite what a huge fan base there is."

Also in the lineup is the return of the Two Ronnies, who are fronting their own comeback variety special more than 17 years after their show was axed.